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The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (RCPSG) Coat of Arms Symbolism

The RCPSG (a charity) was established by Royal Charter from King James VI of Scotland (James I of England) in 1599.

*The first and fourth quarters of the shield contain the lancet that represents the surgeons, and poppy that represents the laudanum used by the physicians and the snake-entwined staff that represents Aesculapius, Greek god of medicine.

*The second quarter of the shield contains the Royal Arms of Scotland (the lion of Scotland) and reflects the gift of the original charter from King James VI of Scotland (James I of England).

*The third quarter has the familiar arms of the City of Glasgow, reflecting the College's origins in Glasgow and the West of Scotland. There are the tree that never grew, the bird that never flew, the bell that never rang and the fish that never swam.

*The supporters are Hygeia (goddess of health) on the right, and on the left, Minerva (goddess of art and science).

*The crest is an antique lamp on an open book, which symbolises the light of learning dispelling the darkness of ignorance.

*The coat of arms has two mottoes. Above is "Conjurat Amice", translated as "We live together in amity". This reflects the unique nature of the RCPSG in encompassing physicians and surgeons, whereas those of Edinburgh and London are separate. The motto below the shield reads "Non vivere sed valere vita". It is an epigram of the Roman poet Martial and can be translated into English as "Not simply to live but to enjoy life".

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